Heat Is On

Death, taxes, and the Heat at home. It was like that early on this season, when the team got off to a 5-1 start on the Triple A (American Airlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami) hardwood. But they've gone 1-2 since in Miami, with losses to bottom-feeders Portland and Toronto, and the home prowess has lost a bit of its luster. But the Heat are still a better team at home than away, like most in the league, and the largest statistical differential to back that comes on transition scoring. The Triple A crowd turns this team into an uptempo machine, cheering it on to nearly 15 fast-break points a night, compared to just over eight on the road. Shaq and company will return to the friendly confines on Friday, following a four-game road trip, when the Memphis Grizzlies visit. Make sure you're seated by tip-off at 7:30 p.m. Miami shoots a game-high 48 percent from the field in the first quarter, meaning you'll miss more than just the pregame pyrotechnics if you show up late. Call 786-777-1000. -- Russ Evans

Pentathlon Challenge

Cross training with a buddy

SAT 12/11

Got a friend or significant other who's just as crazy about sports as you? Instead of heading to the nearest sports bar this Saturday and consuming far too many chicken wings and frosty beverages, why not challenge yourself? If you're up for a challenge, the City of Coconut Creek's Parks and Recreation Department has one for the both of you Saturday. Two-person teams will compete against one another in sand volleyball, half-court basketball, tennis, racquetball, and a composite half-mile run in a Pentathlon Challenge. Divisions are open for both co-ed and men's teams, with a max of eight squads in each. Better move quickly before you're left out. But if you do miss the deadline, you probably weren't cut out for it anyway. The first event starts at 7:30 a.m. at Windmill Park (700 Lyons Rd., Coconut Creek). Registration fees cost $30 per team. Call 954-379-5022. -- Russ Evans

Amateur Golf

FRI 12/10

Calling all senior duffers. Palm-Aire Country Club (2600 Palm-Aire Dr. N., Pompano Beach) presents the 74th Annual Dixie Amateur Golf Championship during December, with the seniors event starting this weekend. One of the oldest amateur tourneys in the country, the Dixie has called Palm-Aire its home since 1998. Players from all around the country will descend on South Florida for this three-day, 54-hole event. The Senior Championship runs from December 10 to 12, with all three rounds on the Oaks Course. And there's more good news -- no cut. So if you sign up for three rounds, no matter how you play, you will be around on Sunday to finish it up. Participation is open to men 55 and older. Call 954-975-6225. -- Russ Evans